Description of the thesis topic

Our research group, located at UMR 6064-CNRS CARMeN Institut (ex-COBRA), Rouen, is currently looking for a highly motivated PhD fellow (starting date November 2025). Website: Besset's group .

Nowadays, organofluorine chemistry is a research field of prime importance as fluorine-containing molecules are compounds of interest for agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals and material science. Consequently, the quest for new methodologies to efficiently introduce various fluorinated groups to access a panel of original fluorine-containing building blocks renders this blooming research area very appealing for scientists. Besides, to face contemporary concerns, the development of eco-friendly transformations especially based catalysis with non-noble metal is a timely topic. Recently, our research group, “Synthesis of fluorinated molecules” in Rouen, has successfully designed new fluorinated reagents and developed innovative transformations. Aiming at taking benefit from our in-home expertise and willing to push beyond the boundaries of knowledge in research fields at the forefront of innovation and highly competitive (organofluorine chemistry and homogeneous catalysis), this project aims at developing an elegant and new conceptual strategy for the synthesis of novel fluorinated derivatives using state-of-the-art technologies. The results obtained in the project will considerably expand the chemical space of fluorinated molecules. Due to the interest in those compounds, the innovative solutions developed in the project are expected to have a significant impact in organic chemistry as well as chemical industry applications.

Application: To support this research program, we are looking for an outstanding and highly motivated candidate to pursue their PhD. He/She will have a strong background in organic synthesis with excellent theoretical and experimental skills. We are looking for dedicated, curious, and hard worker candidates. Moreover, the candidates should have good communication skills, a good team spirit and will take benefit from an international research environment.

Work Context

The PhD candidate will work within the group “Synthesis of Fluorinated Biomolecules” (UMR 6064, Institut CARMeN, formerly 6014 COBRA-CNRS), led by Professor Philippe Jubault. In Rouen, the group comprises 7 researchers and faculty members, along with approximately 20 to 22 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. The laboratory is located at IRCOF in Rouen (CNRS, University, and INSA of Rouen), France. The IRCOF hosts around 60 CNRS researchers and faculty members.

The researcher will work under the supervision of Dr. Tatiana Besset (CNRS Researcher, University of Rouen). The position falls within the framework of the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST) and therefore, in accordance with current regulations, your appointment requires authorization from the competent authority of the MESR.

The position is located in a sector under the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival is authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.

Constraints and risks

Work in organic chemistry in a fully equipped laboratory.

Additional Information

1. A detailed CV including at least two referees, able to be contacted (Note that the recommendation letters must be directly sent from the referees to the contact person).
2. A cover letter
3. A short research summary
4. Engineer school and Master Research (2) grades